Explorations of one of the oldest cities in North America.
I’ve always wanted to go to Quebec City. It was only a slight detour heading from Maine to Michigan, so I had to go.
Quebec City (technically just called Québec) is among the oldest settlements in North America and is situated on the Saint Lawrence River. All the way back in 1535, the French explorer Jacques Cartier built a fort on top of Cape Diamond (Cap-Diamant), which the upper portion of the old town. His settlement did not survive long. The city was officially found by famed explorer Samuel de Champlain on July 3, 1608.
View of the Saint Lawrence River and the mountains north of the city. Many cruise ships stop here.
Old Quebec City was centered on the top of the plateau, with an active port in the Lower Town. Canada was really founded here (there were other French settlements a few years before). The population called themselves Acadians. It is also here the Canada became British. In the fields to the south of the city, the French lost a battle and surrendered, ushering in a new era of British rule.
The Plains of Abraham, where the French lost control of Canada. The Citadel, still an active military base which you can visit, is in the background.
During the American Revolution, some American troops tried to liberate the city from the British. It failed and the city was enclosed in walls, which still remain to this day. This makes Quebec City the only city with surviving walls north of Mexico.
The city walls of Quebec City probably won’t stop anyone anymore since they enlarged the gates to allow cars.
Today Quebec City is the provincial capital of Quebec and a thriving city, still holding onto its unique charm.
The Old Town of Quebec City is full of charming streets full of charming buildings. While Quebec has its own architectural style, the French influence is easily seen.
This was one of my favorites. I swear this building belongs in Europe.
Just a bit of French Empire Style going on here.
Many buildings in Quebec have metallic roofs like this. It is very unique.
A cute little chapel I found.
One of the more popular sights in Quebec City, the Cathedral-Basilica of Notre-Dame de Quebec. It was originally built in 1647, got destroyed in a siege in 1759, rebuilt to look like the original, interior and exterior redesigned, burned by racists in 1922 and then restored. The church been through a lot.
I absolutely loved this. Felt like I was back in Europe.
Édiface Price (Price Building), Old Town’s only skyscraper. While I absolutely love this building, I’m glad that they stopped building them in Old Town. The Premier of Quebec (Prime Minister) lives on the top two floors.
Now to Quebec City’s most famous landmark, the Château Frontenac, which is probably the most photographed hotel in the world. It opened in 1893, although the central tower wasn’t built until 1924.
In front of the hotel, is this nice walking promenade. Underneath it is the ruins of the old fort and governor house.
Now to the Lower Town. There is a famous shopping district on Rue du Petit Champlain at the base of the plateau. I got there early to take photos.
Two hours later this was packed with people.
Place Royale looks straight out of Europe with is stone buildings and old-fashioned town square.
Kind of forgot I was in Canada for a minute.
The Southern end of Place Royal with some more modern shops and Notre-Dame-des-Victories.
I just absolutely love this house.
Last but not least, outside the Old Town is the Parliament of Quebec.
Check out my next update where I visit Montreal!
